Collapsible Metal Box With Articulated Side Panels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing collapsible metal boxes face difficulties in completely emptying due to materials molding to the internal shape, requiring removal of side walls to access lower layers, and lack efficient use of internal volume and space during transport and storage.
Innovation Solution
A collapsible metal box design with articulated side panels that can fold outwards, allowing for easier access to contents without removing side panels, and reinforced structures to enhance stability and handling, including holding means and additional corner reinforcements to maintain panel positions and facilitate folding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If side panels are made fixed and rigid, then structural strength is improved, but ease of operation for filling and emptying deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The side panels are segmented into multiple sections that can articulate relative to each other. Each panel is divided into segments connected by articulation points, allowing the panel to be flexed and collapsed without compromising the overall structural integrity when assembled. This enables the box to transition between rigid (for strength) and collapsible (for operation) states.
Solution Approach 2:
The side panels incorporate articulation mechanisms that allow dynamic transformation between fixed and collapsible configurations. The panels can be articulated inward for collapse and outward for expansion, providing dynamic adaptability for different operational phases while maintaining structural strength when in the assembled position.
2Ease of operation
If side panels are made collapsible, then ease of operation for emptying is improved, but structural stability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The side panels are divided into segments that can articulate independently, allowing controlled collapse while maintaining overall panel integrity. The segmentation enables the panel to flex in a coordinated manner that preserves structural stability during the collapsing and expanding operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple articulation mechanisms and reinforcement elements are combined within the side panel structure. The panel integrates articulation points, reinforcement ribs, and connecting elements that work together to maintain structural stability even when the panel is in a collapsible or partially collapsed state.
3Productivity
If internal volume is maximized, then productivity for material transport is improved, but difficulty of emptying lower layers worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The side panels incorporate dynamic articulation capabilities that allow them to be collapsed inward during the emptying process. This dynamic transformation provides access to lower layers of material without reducing the internal volume when the box is in its assembled, transport-ready state. The panels can be flexed and opened to enable complete emptying while maintaining maximum volume for productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A collapsible metal box, in particular for transporting a material sensitive to creep, is provided. The box includes a base and two first and two second opposing side panels hinged to the base. At least one of the first side panels includes a retaining structure for maintaining the same in an upright position on the base while the second side panels are collapsed fully outwards.